Could Apple Be In Discussions To Buy Universal Music?

In what might be best described as a mistake in the making, Apple Computer is said to be in discussions to make a bid for Universal Music according a report in the Los Angeles Times. According to the report in the LA Times, Apple is said to have been in talks with Vivendi about Universal Music for sometime now. Many rumors around the internet describe these discussions at a "very preliminary" stage, but none the less at least there is some interest.

A purchase of Universal Music by Apple would make the company into both a hardware maker as well as a music vendor. This could present some challenges for Apple which has met with success with products like the Apple iPod. Apple's iPod MP3 player is just one example of possible problems on the horizon with Apple owning a music company. Would Apple who has championed the convergence of music and computer technology do an about face and be more concerned with the protection of their music assets?

As expected with such discussions neither Apple and Universal Music Group representatives wanted to comment. Of course the deal could still fall apart, but not all are casting doubt on the possible combination of the two companies no matter how strange it might sound.

Although it does require registration, the LA Times seems to have the most complete information on the possible deal.